Overview
- Observed on Sunday, December 28, the date marks the Catholic remembrance of the Holy Innocents per the Gospel of Matthew, though historians note the episode lacks independent corroboration.
- Established by the Church by at least the 4th century, the commemoration later fused with medieval role‑reversal festivals such as the Feast of Fools, seeding today’s prank tradition.
- In Mexico, Spain and much of Latin America, common inocentadas range from playful deceptions to staged fake news, often revealed with the phrase “inocente palomita que te dejaste engañar”.
- Mexican customs frequently include mock borrowing of money or objects that are not returned that day, alongside regional plays, dances and lighthearted practical jokes.
- Social platforms and some outlets circulate fabricated announcements on December 28, prompting advice to check sources and confirm surprising claims before sharing.